Multiscale concurrent optimization towards additively manufactured structures

This work establishes a robust concurrent multiscale optimization framework which facilitates the precise functional-grading of mechanical properties within structures, over two scales. The novelty lies in the concurrent nature of the response surface which connects the small-scale geometry to the large-scale domain. A concurrent implementation enables an efficient application of computational resources, such that a large number of design variables can be used without a significant computational penalty. This framework also takes advantage of the process flexibility and precision of additive manufacturing techniques to ensure that all optimized structures are manufacturable and suitable for an aerospace based application. A compliance minimization case is compared against a standard topology optimization algorithm, resulting in superior functional values and demonstrates the efficacy of the presented approach. A further application of this framework is highlighted through a target deformation case, where a complex deformation field is obtained through simple loading conditions. Results from both of the example problems indicate that this framework has potential within the field of adaptive structures, to inspire a new generation of multifunctional designs